“How Organizations Can React to #MeToo – At Every Level” in SmartBrief

In an article for SmartBrief published on March 14, 2018, Shani Magosky provided insight on how organizations and company leaders can address the systemic issues that have come to light in the recent #MeToo movement, specifically harassment in the workplace. To overcome the challenges of assessing harassment in the workplace, Magosky recommends that managers use the “SPIN” method, which address the situation, problem, implication and the needs payoffs. Among other suggestions, Magosky recommends when faced with a precarious situation, running a quick evaluation with the “If it were my kid” test to evaluate whether certain behavior is appropriate. Teams and managers can best prepare for steps to hopefully curb or eliminate harassment situations by evaluating what the team is committed to, and what the appropriate steps are if employees hear or see something concerning. One of the most important steps that can be taken is evaluating what assumptions are held internally about other team members and the organization as a whole, and what needs to change going forward. “Don’t just stand there looking at the problem in a state of overwhelm, denial, or analysis paralysis. Do something. Then observe that worked and do more of it,” said Magosky.